Hydrogen peroxide is a chemical compound with the formula H2O2. In its pure form, it is a pale blue, clear liquid, slightly more viscous than water. Hydrogen peroxide is the simplest peroxide (a compound with an oxygen–oxygen single bond). It is used as an antiseptic agent for wounds. It has low toxicity.
When hydrogen peroxide comes into contact with skin, it turns the skin white. This is because hydrogen peroxide reacts with the melanin in the skin, bleaching it.
Can I Use Hydrogen Peroxide on My Skin?
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Hydrogen peroxide is a common household product that you can use for cleaning and disinfecting. It’s also an effective way to treat minor cuts and scrapes.
When used as directed, hydrogen peroxide is safe for most people. However, it can cause skin irritation and may not be suitable for people with certain skin conditions.
If you have sensitive skin, it’s best to test hydrogen peroxide on a small area before using it on a larger area. To do this, apply a small amount of hydrogen peroxide to a cotton ball and apply it to a small patch of skin.
If you don’t experience any irritation after 24 hours, it’s likely safe to use hydrogen peroxide on your skin.
How to Use Hydrogen Peroxide on Your Skin
When using hydrogen peroxide on your skin, it’s important to take the following precautions:
- Never use hydrogen peroxide that’s more than 3% concentration. Higher concentrations can be corrosive and may cause skin irritation.
- Always dilute hydrogen peroxide with water before applying it to your skin. A 50/50 mixture of hydrogen peroxide and water is typically recommended.
- Never leave hydrogen peroxide on your skin for more than 10 minutes.
- Avoid using hydrogen peroxide on open wounds. If you have a cut or scrape, rinse it with water and cover it with a sterile bandage.
- If you experience skin irritation after using hydrogen peroxide, stop using it and rinse your skin with water.
When used as directed, hydrogen peroxide is a safe and effective way to cleanse and disinfect your skin.
Can hydrogen peroxide treat skin conditions?
Hydrogen peroxide has been shown to be effective in treating a number of skin conditions, including acne, eczema, and psoriasis.
Acne
Hydrogen peroxide can help kill the bacteria that cause acne. It’s thought to work by increasing the production of oxygen in the skin, which creates an environment that’s hostile to bacteria.
A number of studies have found that using a 3% hydrogen peroxide solution can significantly reduce the number of acne lesions.
Eczema
Eczema is a chronic skin condition that causes dry, itchy, and inflamed skin. Hydrogen peroxide has been shown to be an effective treatment for eczema.
A study published in the Journal of Dermatological Science found that using a 3% hydrogen peroxide solution helped improve the symptoms of eczema.
Psoriasis
Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition that causes dry, scaly, and inflamed skin. Hydrogen peroxide has been shown to be an effective treatment for psoriasis.
A study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology found that using a 3% hydrogen peroxide solution helped improve the symptoms of psoriasis.
Conclusion
Hydrogen peroxide is a safe and effective way to cleanse and disinfect your skin. It can also help treat a number of skin conditions, including acne, eczema, and psoriasis.
